Progressives are struggling with recruitment, morale and fundraising as they seek a path forward heading into next year’s midterm elections.

While some on the left, such as Justice Democrats, have called for primary challenges to moderate Democrats in 2026, many progressives acknowledge the hurdles and lack of attention they face. Despite a couple of names floated, like former Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) who is believed to be considering another House bid, liberals are more disorganized about their potential challenger roster. They’re also contending with waning donor enthusiasm.

All together, these predicaments paint a picture of a left wing in trouble, with little idea of how to repair itself after a damaging year.

“I don’t think there’s a single human, including myself, that honestly knows what to do next,” said a longtime Democratic strategist who’s worked on progressive campaigns. “Do I want to do this anymore? How strategic can I really be?”

“If I’m any bit intelligent in those rooms, I’m saying: I don’t f-----g know,” the strategist said.

The bewilderment Democrats face is not confined to the left. Many moderates admit publicly and privately that they aren't sure how to reinvigorate their brand after losing to President Trump and in key races for control of Congress. There’s a desire to do things totally differently, but no set blueprint to prevent future failures.

Progressives feel the pressure more acutely. Often finding themselves in the crosshairs of both Republicans and moderate Democrats, strategists and organizers are aware that they have to protect their members from the GOP’s wide-ranging attacks and big money spending, and from centrists in their own party who still see them as a scourge each election cycle.

But they also feel a need to defend their ideology,........

© The Hill